America’s Farmers Grow Communities to help local 4-H

Published October 1, 2012 at 8:00 am

Drought disaster areas receive double funding

University of Minnesota Extension

Students who participate in 4-H programs are 25 percent more likely to make a positive contribution in their communities, according to a study by Tufts University. Now, thanks to America’s Farmers Grow Communities, rural community members and farmers can help give back to local 4-H organizations, $2,500 at a time.

Now through Nov. 30, eligible farmers in Stearns County can enter for a chance to win the right to direct $2,500 that can be given to their local 4-H. New this year, “Plant Your Idea” provides rural community members the opportunity to suggest an idea or initiative that needs funding for their local 4-H, such as a community garden or camp scholarships.

Farmers may review the ideas and consider them in their application. To plant your idea and encourage farmers to support your 4-H, go to GrowCommunities.com

With more than 90 percent of the U.S. corn and soy production currently impacted by the drought, a farmer’s ability to invest in his or her business and community is affected. To help, the Monsanto Fund will provide additional financial support. Winning farmers from counties that have been declared natural disaster areas will now receive a double donation. These winners may choose the eligible community nonprofit(s) to which the additional $2,500 disaster relief donation will be directed based on community needs that have surfaced due to the drought.

“We are committed to supporting farmers and the rural communities in which they live and work,” said Deborah Patterson, Monsanto Fund president. “Through Grow Communities and the additional disaster relief funding, we hope to positively impact the people and places that are affected by this devastating drought.”

Last year, winning farmers directed $380,000 to 152 4-H organizations across the country.

Farmers can apply online and find the official rules at GrowCommunities.com or call 1.877.267.3332 to apply by phone. The Monsanto Fund will select one winner at random from each of the eligible 1,271 counties and announce winning farmers and recipient nonprofits in January 2013.

For more information on 4-H in Stearns County, contact Sara Budde, Stearns County 4-H Program Coordinator at (320) 255-6169 or [email protected]